The Tom and Julie Wood Family Foundation Donates $3 Million to Support 20th Anniversary Sustainability Campaign for Indiana’s Only Recovery High School
The Tom and Julie Wood Family Foundation, a longtime supporter of Hope Academy, has made the largest financial contribution in the recovery school’s 20-year history, awarding a $3 million gift in support of Hope Academy’s 20th Anniversary Sustainability Campaign. The campaign is designed to meet the evolving needs of young people with substance use disorders while securing the school’s long-term future.
Hope Academy publicly launched the 20th Anniversary Sustainability Campaign in November 2025, announcing it had reached nearly 40 percent of its $20 million goal. This transformational gift from the Tom and Julie Wood Family Foundation was a significant driver of the campaign’s silent phase and momentum.
“We are grateful for The Tom and Julie Wood Family Foundation’s investment in Hope Academy,” said Rachelle Gardner, Executive Director of Hope Academy. “This support strengthens our ability to deliver high-quality education alongside recovery supports, invest in long-term sustainability, and ensure young people with substance use disorder have a clear path to graduation and lasting success.”
Founded in 2006, Hope Academy was among the nation’s earliest recovery high schools. Today, it is one of just 45 operating nationwide, one of only 12 accredited by the Association of Recovery Schools, and the only recovery high school in Indiana.
Since its inception, Hope Academy has served more than 800 students and celebrated over 200 graduates, supporting approximately 50 students each year and consistently maintaining attendance and post-secondary acceptance rates above 90 percent. As the school looks ahead, the Sustainability Campaign builds on two decades of proven impact and ensures students in recovery continue to have access to a safe, sober, and supportive place to learn. To learn more about the Hope Academy Sustainability Campaign or to make a contribution, visit hopeacademyrhs.org/20years.